Abstract
This paper presents a summary of the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) saturation monitor repository (SMR) and describes completed, ongoing, and planned studies, including the types of special filter analysis available. Saturation monitors are non-reference or non-equivalent sampling methods for measuring particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The samplers are small, portable, and relatively easy to set up and operate. Because of their relatively low cost and ease of operation, it is customary to "saturate" a geographical area with the samplers to assess the air quality in areas where high concentrations of pollutants are possible. The data collected are helpful to control agencies in evaluating their ambient air monitoring networks for consistency with the 40 CFR Part 58 air quality surveillance regulations.

The SMR, which was established by EPA in 1993, includes a supply of saturation samplers and support equipment which agencies may borrow to conduct special field studies. The SMR also provides limited services to quality assure the samplers and assist in field studies upon request. Occasionally, State, local, and tribal agencies measure concentrations of particulate matter that exceed or are close to exceeding the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for PM10 and/or PM2.5. In order to understand the nature of the particulate matter contributing to the high concentrations, EPA provides filter analysis service as part of the SMR to agencies requesting such assistance.

The saturation samplers available through the SMR are manufactured by Airmetrics.

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